Zalewski makes Roma comeback as El Shaarawy hurt | OneFootball

Nicola Zalewski made his comeback in the Roma jersey over a month after turning down a move to Galatasaray, as Stephan El Shaarawy was added to the growing injury list.

The left wing-back had been effectively sold to Galatasaray in the opening days of September, but he did not want to make the transfer and refused to work out personal terms.

Seeing as his contract with the Giallorossi only runs to June 2025 and he could soon become a free agent, he was frozen out of the squad and sent to the stands.

Zalewski situation changing at Roma

Following the dismissal of Daniele De Rossi and appointment of new coach Ivan Juric, the change of tactics and long-term injury for Alexis Saelemaekers made Zalewski’s absence all the more frustrating.

Negotiations have been taking place for the Poland international to sign a new contract at Roma, having come through the youth academy of his hometown club.

With that in mind, Zalewski was included in the squad this week for the first time and ended up having to play when El Shaarawy limped off during the Serie A trip to Monza.

The 22-year-old, who was born and raised in Rome to Polish parents, had made three appearances this season in the opening three Serie A rounds, the most recent against Juventus on September 1.